Yu-Gi-Oh! Kaimon! (Season 1)

by CosmoK13

After a devastating fight between darkness and light, six souls were sealed away in mythical items. A prophecy foretold that these six spirits will come together to defeat the darkness. Join Yugi Mutou, as he and his friends, along with the other five chosen hosts, set out on a bunch of adventures to uncover the past, battle against all odds, and use the Power of Spirit Monsters!

19. Chapter 18

Episode 18: The Great Popularity Contest

It was Monday morning in Domino, Japan as May was coming to a close. Summer vacation was around the corner for many students of all ages. Of course, there was still a month and a half left before the 40-day break off of school, yet plenty of young teenagers were already making plans for what they were going to do. Among them were certain females of Domino High, who were walking together in a group as they headed towards their school.

"Maybe we should go to Hawaii. It would be nice to go out of the country." Miho offered with a smile.

Anzu raised a brow towards the periwinkle haired girl. "Do you know how much a trip would cost even if it was just the three of us? Even if we started to save up now, there's no way we could get there by the time Summer break is over."

"But Miho wants to go somewhere…" She sighed.

"Well, there are plenty of places you could go to around Japan." Cosmo suggested. "It would be cheaper and you should tour around your home country at least once in your life."

They still discussed the matter, even as they entered the locker bay while changing their shoes. Anzu looked over at the green-haired girl. "What were you thinking of doing over break?"

Cosmo only looked up at her after tightening the straps on her shoes. "Honestly, probably not a lot. I might just be spending it at the flower store, since spring and summer is usually the time where people do lots of gardening. And with my sister going to her internship, I don't think we will even have the time." She admits.

Both girls looked at her in disappointment while the brunette questioned her. "So, you don't really have anything planned for this summer?

"Not at the moment. Though Yugi did promise me that he would take me to the amusement park, so maybe we could do that."

Hearing this statement for the first time made Anzu raise a brow. "Oh? You and Yugi? At the park? Together? Alone?"

The shortest of the three blinked in confusion. "Yes? Is there something wrong with that?" She didn't understand what the problem was. It would be just two friends hanging out on a day at the park. Yugi was the one who offered the idea to Cosmo, and she wanted to go for the fun of it. Miho and Anzu looked at one another, as they both had a feeling that there was something more to this.

"N-Nothing. There's nothing wrong with that." Anzu lied. To Miho, and much to her dismay, even Anzu wondered if this would be considered a date. Sure, they may not see it now, but Cosmo and Yugi could develop feelings during that time at the park. Plus, Anzu had suspicions that Cosmo never got over her feelings for Yugi. Still, she wouldn't say it because it seemed the youngest of the group wasn't any wiser. "Anyways, if you have any days off, maybe we could do something together." Anzu suggested.

This made Cosmo nod at the idea. Miho smiled as she agreed, since she didn't want to spend the summer at home. For now though, the three would have to get through the rest of the semester one day at a time until the break. The periwinkle-girl opened her shoe locker so she could get her footwear for the school. Instead of her leather slip-ons, her fingers came into contact with thin paper. She pulled out from her cubicle three envelopes that were addressed to her, each in different colors and handwriting. It didn't take a genius to realize these were letters of confessions for her.

"Woah… three letters?" Cosmo gasped, noticing the number.

"You sure have gotten popular lately." Anzu pointed out with a grin.

Miho turned to them, holding out the letters. "Do you girls want them?"

Anzu held her hands up and waved them in defense. "W-w-wait a moment, Miho! They are for you."

"I know, but it's a bit annoying." She complained.

"How can you complain? Isn't this what you like?" Anzu questioned.

"Oh my…" The three were interrupted as they saw another trio of female students not too far from them. The one that spoke had red-orange hair in waves with icy-blue eyes. "I can't believe you got that much, I'm almost jealous." She mused in sarcasm as the three couldn't help but watch her open her own locker. When she lifted the slot, many letters and tiny boxes began to fall out. Anzu, Cosmo and Miho gasped in surprise, seeing a pile of affectionate tokens fall out of her locker. She knelt down with her lackeys as she held a handful of said gifts, rubbing it in their faces. "I always get sick of dealing with this everyday."

"Unless you can do something about your beauty, it's hopeless Kaoruko." The girl with the glasses had the same smile as the other two.

"You've got a point there." She giggled with the others as they collected the gifts.

"Woah, that's a lot of fan mail." Cosmo noted.

"Just what you'd expect from Domino High's number one popular girl, Himekoji Kaoruko. Her beauty is far beyond average." Anzu pointed out.

"Really?" Cosmo tilted her head as she watched the trio leave with their treasures. "She doesn't seem that beautiful. I don't see the appeal people have to her."

"Well, beauty is in the eye of the beholder." Miho shrugged. "But she is in the third year and such a tease. No wonder people find her appealing."

"Even so, people shouldn't judge others based on appearances alone. After all, beauty doesn't last forever." Cosmo stated.

Anzu sighed. "Tell that to all of her fanboys and fangirls." With the signal of the bell, the girls hurried to get their shoes on and begin the first period, putting that event behind them.

---

The school day seemed to drag on forever, but it finally came to a close as everyone was gathering their things to take home. Yugi was with Jounouchi at his desk, looking over a graded paper that the two got on a shared project. They presented it today, and the blond cheered on the results. "A B plus! Alright! This is the highest grade I've gotten!"

"Looks like there were a few things that were lacking in our presentation…" Yugi noted as he checked over the notes. "Maybe we should have kept that extra slide about fighting styles."

"Don't overthink it now, what matters is it's over and we got a passing grade!" Jounouchi pointed out. "I say we should celebrate! How about a trip to burger world and then go to your place and play a few games?"

That idea did make Yugi smile, as he would not turn it down. "Should we ask if Honda can come with us? We do owe him for allowing us to borrow that book about the Spartans."

"Nah, he said he has to go to the student council meeting after school today. Apparently his janitor club is supposed to discuss some cleaning projects they want to do."

"Sounds like he's going to have his hands full…" Yugi commented.

"Well, at least he finally managed to get into the Student Council room." Jounouchi chuckled. It was a truth that being class president was Honda's dream, but at this point in the school year, that was not bound to happen. He was hoping that after the summer break for the second semester of their tenth year, he would get a redemption. Yugi promised him his vote, which did make him happy at least. "Anyways, burgers are on me! I've been saving up some of my money from my mom's allowance for such occasions."

"Sounds like you and your mom are on pretty good terms if she's giving you money…" Yugi commented.

"Hey, it's not charity money. She's just been giving me ten percent of her weekly pay for my allowance. As long as I keep looking over Shizuka and doing good in school. So that's the deal. But so far she likes working at that hospital." He admits. "They respect her and despite being new, she's already taken on a lot of jobs. She's already up for a position at the head of the nursing department, which means she'll be getting a bonus." A smile placed itself onto his face as he explained.

"Sounds like she's doing a lot better…" Yugi noted.

"Yeah, she makes 400,000 yen a month, which means I get 10,000 every week. She set up a separate bank account for me where only she can access it. I have to tell her when I need money, but I feel better knowing I can actually get money without repaying someone." Jouncouhi mused. Though it wasn't about the yen, Jounouchi was just happy to have something from his mom. And the fact that she had been doing all of this for him proves that their relationship has gotten a lot stronger. "Oh hey Yugi," He changed the subject. "Can I keep some of the props we used in our presentation?"

"Why would you want to keep them?" Yugi asked.

"Seems like a waste to toss them after working so hard on them. Plus, if I can make the rest of the outfit, I could be a Spartan warrior!" Jounouchi added as he held a pose of balance.

Yugi chuckled at that comment, seeing how much his friend liked that culture. Of course, it was Jounouchi's idea to do a presentation about the Spartan's lifestyle as he seemed fascinated by the warriors. "In that case, feel free to take which ones you want." Jounouchi smiled, as he went to the back of the classroom to rummage through the props they brought in. Yugi watched from his seat, while he gathered his books and papers to take home for the day. As he finished closing his backpack, he looked out the corner of his eye to see a familiar green-haired girl approaching.

"Ah! Cosmo!" Yugi greeted her as she came up to him.

"How did your presentation go, Yugi?" Cosmo asked while smiling.

"Great! Jounouchi and I managed to score a high grade on our assignment."

"That's wonderful. I bet even Jounouchi is happy about that." She noted while they turned to see the blond playing around with their props. Cosmo couldn't help but giggle as he tried to adjust his helmet so it would fit. Her head turned back to Yugi as she wanted to ask him something. "Um… by the way, I was wondering…" Yugi tilted his head and blinked while staring at Cosmo, pondering what she wanted to request. The young girl felt nervous, but after rubbing the back of her neck, she finally managed to speak. "I wanted to ask if you would join me for lunch tomorrow. Just the two of us outside under the tree we met on my second day here."

"Just us two?" Yugi asked, which made Cosmo nod in response. This conversation caught the attention of Jounouchi, who listened in but didn't say anything. To Yugi he didn't think it would cause any harm. And it had been a while since the two of them hung out together. The last time was when she was learning about Capumon and they spent hours planning strategies and having fun. "Sure!" Yugi finally agreed. "Tomorrow at lunch we can meet outside."

Cosmo's eyes sparkled with stars as her smile grew. She clapped her hands together. "Thank you, Yugi! Oh! I also want to know if there are any foods you don't like. I want to make lunch for us together, but I didn't know what you disliked."

"Foods I don't like…" He repeated while he thought about it. "The only food I can't stand is shallot. Other than that, I'm not too picky."

"Alright, I'll remember that." Cosmo nodded as she turned on her heels. "I'll see you tomorrow, Yugi." She then headed out the door while he waved to her.

"Bye Cosmo." He watched her go, smiling until she was out of sight.

"Yuge, don't you realize what happened?"

Yugi turned to the blond who approached his desk, confused for a moment. "What do you mean?"

"Come on! She asked you to sit with her at lunch! Alone! A lunch she is making for you!"

"So?" Yugi raised a brow. "Cosmo is just a friend."

"Come on dude, you can't be this dense." Jounouchi sighed. Yugi didn't understand what he was talking about. Him and Cosmo were only friends, it wasn't as if this was a date. At least, Yugi didn't believe it was. But much like Anzu, Jounouchi had his suspicions.

---

The rest of the day Yugi and Jounouchi spent time together after school. They went to Burger World and ordered their food, then headed to the Game Shop to play games while chowing down on their burgers. Overall, it wasn't a bad Monday to either of them, especially with the grade they got in their class. The next day, Yugi was even more excited to head to school as he wondered what else waited for him. He knew he would find Cosmo, who would be joining him for lunch. He still was curious about what Jounouchi meant by Yugi being dense, but he brushed it off.

Once he got his school shoes on, he began to make his way down the halls to get to his first hour class. That trip was interrupted as he saw a crowd of students gathered around a wall which held the news board. Yugi was baffled upon seeing the many peers checking up the flyers. One of them was Jounouchi, who was observing it as well. "Man, this is really sudden. I guess the student body had some free time on their hands."

"Jounouchi!" Yugi called out as he squeezed through the crowd to be close to him. "What's going on?"

The taller of the two looked down at his friend before explaining. "Apparently the student body is hosting a beauty pageant this Sunday." This news caught Yugi by surprise. They were holding a beauty contest for the school? When did such a topic like this come up? And how? "I'm more surprised that the school is allowing this." Jounouchi shrugged.

Yugi looked up at the poster, seeing female silhouettes to the side of the paper with the information written in the center. "Looks like sign ups will be held in the gym and be closed at the end of the day tomorrow…" Yugi noted as he checked over the rules. His eyes landed on the prize. "No way! The winner gets tickets to the musical, 'Beauty and the Beast'!"

"For real?!" Jounouchi gasped, looking at the poster which confirmed it. He heard about the musical coming to Japan for quite a while now, but since it was a classic, tickets had been sold out everywhere. "Shizuka did say she would want to see a musical." He stated, remembering a small wish that his little sister wanted to come true. If he could win those tickets, then it would be another thing for her to experience outside her hospital life. "Alright! Come on, Yugi!" With his mind made up, Jounouchi grabbed onto his friend's hand and ran out of the crowd. The short student wasn't certain of what was happening but he could not stop himself from being dragged by Jounouchi to the gymnasium. There in the center was a table with a young student sitting behind. The guy had a shaved head and glasses, with a clipboard and pen in hand. "There it is!" Jounouchi ran over to the table with Yugi behind him. "Hey! I'm here to apply for the contest!"

The kid looked up at the blond and blinked in confusion. "I believe you are mistaken. This is a popularity contest for girls. It has nothing to do with muscles or boys at all." He explained while adjusting his round lenses.

That remark made Jounouchi reach over and grab hold of the guy's shirt, lifting him up. "Are you saying that guys can't be just as popular? That sounds pretty sexist, and I am a guy who believes in gender equality!"

"Alright, you can sign up." The guy gave in, which made Jounouchi smile and let him down. After picking up the pen, he wrote his name on the paper.

"Are you sure about this, Jounouchi?" Yugi asked, not sure how he felt.

"I know what I'm doing! Those tickets will be mine!" He declared.

"Yugi!" The young boy heard that familiar voice, which caused him to turn around and smile as his childhood friend ran over to where they were.

"Anzu!" He greeted her as she approached the table.

"What are you doing here?" She asked.

Yugi answered her. "Jounouchi came here so he could sign up for the contest." Upon hearing that, Anzu gasped as her wide eyes looked over to the blond.

Jounouchi raised a brow towards her. "Why is everyone so shocked? Popularity isn't about looks."

Despite his statement, no one dared to argue further. This was just a thing for Jounouchi to do, so better he just get the humiliation over with. "Are you participating in the contest as well, Anzu?" Yugi asked, changing the subject.

Anzu nodded. "The prize is tickets to a Broadway musical I've been dying to see! I want to win so I can experience first hand professional stage dancing."

Hearing that made Yugi smile, not only because she was joining but because of her reasons which sparked her love for the theater. She also had a chance since there were many first and second year female students on her side, especially after her petition against Chouno weeks back. "In that case, I'll be cheering for you to do your best!" Yugi promised.

"Hold on Yugi, you're going to be cheering for me, right?" Jounouchi glared at his friend, which caused the short one to look between him and Anzu as both of them wanted to know which side the young boy would be taking. He did not like being in the middle of arguments or picking sides, so he stuttered a bit until the bell began to ring. He took this chance to run out of the gym, dodging their questions as he had never been so grateful for being told to get to class before.

The rest of the morning went by with the topic of this pageant. Many people were signing up and they were asking questions such as who would win, who would judge, what kind of rounds they would do? Everyone tried to get the intel as much as they could so they could prepare for this Sunday, even Jounouchi listened to any kind of gossip to come up with an act. Anzu was just as curious, though she already had an idea down. So far, they were aware of a talent section, but that was all the information they had. With each class, Yugi became more annoyed as the topic escalated as it was all anyone talked about. Everyone raved about it, even though he didn't believe it was that important. The young boy was relieved when lunch rolled around so he could take a break. He rushed out of the classroom and headed towards the entrance of the building.

The green haired girl was waiting by the doors as she held a large box. She had decorated it in a green cloth patterned with pink roses. She was a bit nervous as it had been a while since she had spent time alone with Yugi, but she wanted to have lunch with him regardless. The moment her ears picked up the sound of footsteps, she turned to see him coming over to her. "There you are!" She greeted Yugi.

"Were you waiting long?" He asked.

Cosmo shook her head, and led him through the campus grounds towards the bench under one of the large cherry blossom trees. Once they were seated, she got out the bento boxes and the thermos which held green tea. She had made a lunch that contained sandwiches and cute shaped berries. Yugi awed at the assortment, admiring the detail. "I hope you like it. I'm kind of a vegetarian as is the rest of my family. So we didn't have any meat I could add to your sandwiches. I know you like burgers and would have gotten you one, but this was the best I got. I ended up using rice patties in the bread with some cucumbers and lettuce."

"It's great! This looks amazing!" He commented as Yugi's hands grabbed one of the sandwiches. He took a bite out of it and tasted the texture. Afterwards, he chewed his food and smiled. "It's really good!"

"Really? It's my first time cooking for someone else, so I didn't have too much hope." She admitted.

"The rice is just moist enough and goes well with the other toppings." He assured her, taking another bite. Cosmo seemed content with his praise, then handed him one of the cups filled with green tea. After finishing his sandwich, he took the drink and sighed. Cosmo soon ate some of her portions as well, but much slower as the gentle breeze kissed her face. "It sure is a beautiful day out." Yugi noted, looking up at the clear sky.

"I love the spring and summer seasons. It's the perfect time to garden and admire the flowers. And it's also the time of my birthday." She admits.

"Oh? When's your birthday?" Yugi asked her.

"March 12th." She answered

"Really? I guess that explains it then." Yugi chuckled.

Cosmo tilted her head in confusion. "Explain what?"

"O-oh! No, I didn't mean to offend you. Just since you like to garden so much and have green hair, I figured you being a spring or summer child would explain it." He elaborated.

His explanation out of nervousness made her giggle. "Well, you aren't wrong." She admitted. The two continued to eat their shared lunch, enjoying the small break they had from school and other activities. Yugi still didn't understand why Jounouchi was making a big deal about this meetup he and Cosmo were having. It was just lunch and conversations between two friends. "By the way," Cosmo started to speak after drinking some of her tea. "Do you know why everyone was in the gymnasium this morning?" She turned to Yugi for an answer.

"You haven't heard?" The young boy was surprised, but when Cosmo shook her head, he began to explain. "The Student Council is hosting a popularity contest this Sunday. The winner will get tickets to the 'Beauty and the Beast' musical."

"Popularity contest?" She repeated. "And the teachers and staff are allowing this?"

Yugi shrugged. "If they are hosting it, they seem okay with it. Anzu is signing up for a chance to win the tickets. And so is Jounouchi…" He sighed as he said the last line.

"Eh?! Both of them are going to participate? I mean, I suppose Anzu doesn't care about the popularity bit, more so the prize. But Jounouchi?"

"I guess he wants the tickets as well? All I know is I'll be cheering for them both, but I'll mainly be cheering for Anzu." He whispered the last sentence towards Cosmo, which made her giggle again. "Were you thinking of entering? I don't think it's too late for participants."

The green-haired girl's eyes went wide at the suggestion. A blush crossed her face before she turned away. "I… don't think that's a good idea. I mean, I don't really have any talent and I hardly stand out as is. Not to mention, I'm really stage shy, so I can't handle big crowds." Her voice cracked a bit as she explained. Yugi wouldn't protest or force her into it, it was clear she was not confident enough for such a thing. "I mean… I have always liked to sing in my free time. I know it sounds cheesy and cliche, but I tend to sing to the flowers every night before bed. You know how they say talking to flowers can help them grow faster, well I sing to them. My sister always says I have a good voice… but I think she says it to make me feel better."

"Well, if the flowers could talk I'd bet they would agree with her." Yugi stated, which made Cosmo blush a bit more, as she attempted to hide it out of embarrassment.

"I-I'm sure you are just saying that t-to be nice…"

"I mean it. I bet you have a wonderful voice and I'd love to hear it." He admits, which made Cosmo finally look his way as he grinned. She started to beam his way as well, and for a moment was thinking of sharing her voice with him, but quickly shut the idea down.

"So, you said Anzu was participating as well as Jounouchi?" Yugi nodded at her question. "In that case, I'll be there to cheer them both on! Though I don't know who I will end up voting for."

"We'll just have to see what kind of events they will have for the show. I'm not really into this, but I want Anzu to win!" Cosmo agreed with Yugi, as they were slightly excited for this Sunday.

The rest of the day went by pretty peacefully. After their lunch, they headed to their classes and finished the rest of their periods. The sun was starting to set as Yugi had exited the building by himself. He had stayed behind to clean up with the other students, so he got off a bit later. Still, he didn't mind as he had his bag all packed and was ready to head home as he stepped outside to the school grounds. "Looks like Anzu will be working hard for the contest this weekend." Yugi told himself as he saw her being pumped throughout the day. Which motivated him in his job. "I better get started on her posters and rally a team for her!" He declared. He had a lot to do, but at least there was plenty of time. He would have to get started right away once he was back home. His progress however was put on pause as he noticed a familiar figure sitting near the gate. Honda was looking down at his feet as his back was hunched over. He had a depressed posture, so naturally Yugi went over to check up on him. "Honda, is something wrong?"

The brunet male looked up at his friend. Brief hope sketched onto his face for a moment as he suddenly hopped over like a frog and slung his arms over Yugi's frame. "Yugi! Please help me!" He begged as tears started to fall down his face. "I'm in trouble and you're the only one that can help me! I need all the support I can get!"

Honda's sudden affection caught Yugi off guard, but he tried to calm him down as he sat with him on the side of the school. Rubbing his back as Honda tried to get the sniffles out of his system. "Honda, what's going on?"

After catching his breath and sucking up the boogers in his nose, he began to explain. "I-I need Miho to enter the contest this Sunday."

"Why do you want her to enter?" Yugi questioned.

"Because it was the whole reason for this contest." He admitted. This caught Yugi's attention, so Honda elaborated. "Yesterday, during the student council meeting, I was in the middle of bringing up new ideas and projects to help keep our school and the community clean. Mainly to increase the budget for the Beautification Club, which I worked hard on making graphs and reasonings behind my statements. But the vice president of the council, who made a fan club for Himekoji Kaoruko, was staring at her picture during the meeting. I got annoyed and took it from him, saying how much of a nasty woman she was! When I told him that Miho Nosaka was better, he laughed and called her a child."

"And that's where this contest came from?" Yugi raised a brow.

"That's how we decided who was the most popular amongst the students. Plus, if Miho won, then the vice president would refill our budget for the Beautification club that he 'stole' in order to support Kaoruko." So that was how the club was funded.

It was a lot to take it, but Yugi managed to follow it all as he now understood the idea of this contest. "So, this is more of a Miho vs. Kaoruko rather than an actual popularity contest."

"But, we had to allow other participants or it wouldn't be approved. That's why it's a contest… Kaoruko has already been applied. But when I tried to approach Miho about it…" He trailed off, as he began to tell Yugi the events of a few hours ago.

---

Miho packed up her bag with some books and notes, ready to head out as her final class was over. Just as she was closing her briefcase, she looked up to see Honda approaching her with a nervous smile. "Huh? Honda?"

"Ah! Miho!" He greeted her as he stood by her side. "I wanted to ask you something about the popularity contest…"

"Are you planning on participating?" She asked Honda.

While it took him by surprise, he quickly brushed it off by laughing and rubbing the back of his neck. "Of course not!" After his laugh, he became serious. "Actually, it was mentioned that the winner will be escorted on the stage by the person they choose." As he explained, he couldn't help but picture himself bringing Miho onto the stage. Both of them dressed up in a fancy manner, basking in the spotlight for the other students. "If it's alright with you, would you allow me to escort you onto stage, Miho?" He begged while approaching her while he held his hands together.

"Why though?" She asked, blinking in confusion. "It's not like I'll win."

Honda laughed again, waving his hand at her pessimism. "That's for the numbers to decide. I'm certain that Miho will win the contest!"

The periwinkle-haired girl plastered a smile of her own. "But I'm not even participating." She admitted.

Upon hearing that, Honda lost color in his face as he stared at her in bewilderment. "Eh?! W-why not?!"

"Honestly, it just seems like a lot of trouble. Plus, I don't care what people think of me." She admits, grabbing her briefcase and heading out of the classroom without a second thought. "Later Honda. See you around." She waved to him, leaving him alone as his eyes sunk into his skull while his heart shattered.

---

So now, Yugi found himself running around the small town of Domino to locate Miho. He agreed to try to persuade her after hearing Honda's story of rejection. While he didn't promise he could convince her, he would at least try. Yugi had to admit that it was surprising for her to not want to enter the contest, especially considering she was all for pageants and presenting herself. Still, he wouldn't force her into the competition if she didn't want to. He ran down the streets, looking around in the hopes that she had not gone home yet. Luck was on his side as Yugi finally spotted her, staring into the window of a dress shop. With a smile on his face he began to head towards her as he called her name. This gained Miho's attention as she turned to see him approaching her. "Oh, Yugi! What are you doing here?"

Once he was near her, he let out a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness I found you. I wanted to talk to you about the contest."

"Are you going to enter, Yugi?" She asked.

He raised his hands up in defense and began to wave them in denial. "N-No way… I was just curious why you don't want to participate. I mean, the prize is for a famous musical, wouldn't you want to go see that with Anzu?"

"I don't really like musicals, though." Miho admitted. "Besides, I don't see a reason for me to enter on my own terms."

"Oh, I see…" Yugi noted, trying not to sound too disappointed.

"Hey, since you're here, how about we go get a drink together? I'm a bit parched." Miho suggested as she started to walk ahead. Yugi watched her for a moment before sighing in defeat. It seemed Miho was not interested in entering the contest for any reason, and it wasn't as if Yugi could force her.

"Sorry Honda… I tried." He turned around and was going to follow her, as he was a bit parched himself. The moment he shifted his body, his chest suddenly felt hot. When he looked down, he could feel the Millennium Puzzle around his neck pulsate which caused him to freeze. His body felt strange, as if it sensed immediate danger that was coming to him. When he looked down at his Puzzle, he could see that it was glowing brightly 'What's going on? This hasn't happened before…' Yugi was nervous, but that fear washed away as he managed to gain control of his muscles and place a hand on the golden artifact. That did help calm the relic down, and ceased its brightness. It was an odd event, and one that had never happened before.

"D-Did I do something to you just now?" Yugi heard an unfamiliar voice call to him. It wasn't until he looked up that he saw someone in front of him. It was a man that was above average height, who had pale yet flawless skin. His hair was a very light shade of blue powder, almost to the point it looked white. His eyes were the same color as his hair, sparking so well with such diamond cut shapes. He wore a white t-shirt with buttons and blue jeans, so he seemed like a regular person all things considered. Though now that Yugi was looking at him, he seemed like he was around his age? But he couldn't be sure. It took him a moment to register what he asked Yugi, so the high schooler shook his head despite being confused by the question. The young man sighed in relief though. "Oh, I see… Sorry. Sometimes I have relapses in my memory, so I lose time often." He placed a hand over his chest as he took a deep breath. "I'm glad nothing happened."

Yugi grew slightly interested after hearing that. 'Relapses in memory?' He repeated that phrase in his mind. That sort of stuff happened with him as well, and it had been occurring more often than should have been healthy. Was this a coincidence, or was there a connection to this?

"Yugi!? What's taking you so long?" Miho called out, looking over in his direction. The young boy turned his head, seeing the girl walking over to him. Just as she was a good distance away, the blue-haired boy turned to face the female student. The moment she saw this man, her eyes turned into hearts as she held her hands together. Her chest tightened in anticipation. 'Oh my! He's very handsome!' She thought to herself, running over in a flushed yet confident expression and tone. "Hello there, my name is Miho Nosaka and I'm a student at Domino High School. Our school is having a popularity contest this Sunday! I'm going to be entering and winning, so would it be alright if you could be my escort to help me on stage?" She asked in a pleading voice. This caused Yugi to raise a brow in confusion, as she had only met this guy and didn't even know his name, yet she was asking him to attend a school event he didn't even went to? "Pretty please?!" Miho begged.

The guy didn't respond, he merely closed his eyes and turned to walk in the opposite direction Miho came from. She clearly didn't get the hint as she waved her arm while shouting towards him. "Be sure to come by! I'll be waiting for you!" She declared. Yugi watched him go, feeling sorry as he pretty much got offered something he had no say in. Though he doubted this man would come to the high school, not that he blamed him for not coming. "Alright! Miho is going to do her best and win this contest!" She declared, turning on her heels and raising her fist in the air as she chanted "fight" over and over.

Yugi saw her go, being left alone with his thoughts as he held onto the Puzzle. He still was hung up about how it reacted in such a way. 'I wonder what that was all about…' He moved his head back over, where Miho had left as a smile spread on his face. 'Well, all things considered, at least Miho agreed to join the contest.' So there was a silver lining to this madness.

---

That Saturday evening, the day before the contest, Yugi was staying behind in the class so he could make the signs to support Anzu. It had only been an hour after the final bell, but he had to stay behind so he could do the final touches on the signs for her team. "I think it looks pretty good." He declared.

Anzu herself looked over the final design, smiling in satisfaction. "This should be more than enough. I think we can pack up and head out."

Yugi nodded in agreement as the other girls in Anzu's club helped to clean up the supplies and gathered the signs. "Are you excited for tomorrow?" He asked his friend.

Anzu nodded. "I'm a bit nervous, but I already got the routine down. Looks like there will be four stages: The introduction, the talent portion, the swimsuit portion and the formal portion."

"Sounds like a lot." Yugi noted.

"Not really, if I can manage to land my dance during the talent act, then the other two will be coming my way. Though I'm surprised that Miho was joining. I thought she said she wasn't interested in this contest."

Yugi chuckled nervously. "I… guess she changed her mind for some reason." That was all he was going to say, as he rather not speak the real reason. "A-Anyways, is there anything you need me to do?"

Anzu looked around as she tried to figure out the next move. "We pretty much got the rest, but if you could bring back the extra papers to the copy room, the ones we didn't use?" Yugi nodded, gathering the unused papers in his arms. After he thanked everyone for their hard work for the contest tomorrow, he headed out of the room and maneuvered through the halls to find the copy room. Thankfully, he was able to find it on the same floor, and placed the papers on the desk. After that mission was done, he was ready to head back home. He was prepared for the battle of the contest tomorrow, making his way down the corridors to head to the locker bay. He walked past the music room, only to stop when he heard something coming from within the walls of the room.

"In my dreams I can hear you calling me~. In the night, everything's so sweet~. In your eyes… I feel… there's so much… inside~." Yugi stopped as he listened to that singing. It was a soft and soothing voice, creating a lullaby. He became curious as he peeked into the music room through the door. Inside, he gasped to see what was taking place. The instruments were moved to a single corner, leaving most of the room open. There was a large green curtain covering the windows to adjust the lighting. Props littered the floor from white powered covered benches, bushes of flowers, a microphone and a few boxes wrapped in presents. The most noticeable and interesting part were the cameras that were filming this, as Sparkle was managing it as she looked at the one in the middle of the greenscreen who was singing.

"In the nights! Dream delight~ I want to see you standing there~. In the nights~ Dream delight~ I found someone who… really cares~. In the nights~ Dream delight~ I want to see you smile again~. In the nights! Dream delight! You are the one I've… waited for~." As Cosmo was in the middle of her song, Yugi noticed two things. First, the music that played was an instrumental of what sounded like jingling bells and soft strums with strings like a violin. The second thing he noticed was the outfit Cosmo wore. Her hair was in the usual style, with one bun on each side but they now hung red ribbons tied at the bases with silver bells. Her dress was a pine-green with puffed sleeves and a white sailor based collar. The hem of the sleeves and dress had snow frills as her chest had a big crimson ribbon with another one on the back above her butt. The same colored ribbons were around her wrists, acting as bracelets and one on her neck. Her shoes were dress ones that matched the color of the cloth with a single strap and her high stockings matched the snow themed.

"Alright, I think that should do it." Sparkle clicked a few buttons on the camera.

"How much longer do we have to do this? I'm getting a bit tired…" Cosmo asked, trying not to sound annoyed but it seemed she was not interested in this project.

"We just have to redo a few of the scenes. We already got your singing recorded, but we need to be able to make sure you are dancing along to the music. Remember, you are in winter. A snow fairy with the grace of a ballerina who is trying to find the love of your life." Sparkle explained.

As Yugi watched and listened, he was still clueless as to what was going on. Even though he should head home, curiosity compelled him to open the door and walk in, which gained the attention of the girls. Cosmo flushed in embarrassment as she looked away from him. "Ah! Y-Yugi! H-How long have you been here?"

Yugi rubbed the back of his neck as he noticed how nervous Cosmo was. "I… overheard you singing and wanted to see what was happening. Sorry if I was intruding. But… you have a lovely voice." Yugi admitted, trying to compliment her.

"E-Eh?" Cosmo blinked, not having the courage to look at him. "You… really think so?"

"It sounds like a lullaby, with a soothing rhythm. What song is that?" He asked.

"Oh… it's called 'Sweet Snow'. It was a song passed down on my mother's side for many generations. They used it to help their children sleep, so technically it is a lullaby." Cosmo explained. "But I'm only singing it because Sparkle asked me to."

Yugi turned his attention to the lavender haired girl, as she was still near the camera. "I convinced Cosmo to make a music video to send to my folks back at home. She was hesitant at first, but when she heard it would be across the seas, she agreed to it."

"Sparkle told me she wanted me to sing a song, but the only one I knew and was confident with was the one my mom sang to me. She said it would be a perfect Christmas video for her folks back in the state." Cosmo added. "I'm still hesitant about this… but Sparkle is my friend and if it's for her family, I wanted to help out."

"I overheard her singing the song here one time, and asked her to make the video." Sparkle stated. "Plus, it will be a great way to boost your confidence! Lots of people like music videos, and if you are going to grow a backbone, you need to take charge and put yourself out there."

"I… guess?" Cosmo was still unsure.

"For what it's worth, I wouldn't mind seeing the video." Yugi told them. Both girls turned to him as he looked around the room with the props and costumes. "So, this is a Christmas theme video?"

"Due to the name of the song, Sparkle went with a winter theme. The past week we've created the props, picked my outfit and did multiple recordings. The greenscreen will be used to create a background when Sparkle edits it.

"Sounds like you two have had a lot of work." Yugi noted.

Sparkle shrugged in assurance. "We've managed, we just have to make sure to get this ready by tomorrow. The good news is we're pretty much done. There's only a few more shoots for the scenes where Cosmo is singing the lyrics." As she explained, Sparkle landed her eyes on Yugi as a grin spread across her lips. "Actually, we could use your help with these next parts."

"Huh?" Yugi blinked as he looked over at the taller female, who smiled.

"We need a male figure to take the place of a prince. It's an important scene where the princess and the prince dance a waltz. I'd do it myself but someone has to be in charge of the camera. You do know how to waltz, don't you?" Yugi wasn't sure why he nodded so quickly, but he did so.

"Y-You don't have to do this, Yugi." Cosmo tried to get him out of it, since she didn't want him to be uncomfortable.

"No, it's fine really." He reassured her. "Besides, I'm willing to help out. Do I need an outfit?"

"What you're wearing should be fine. We'll put a shadow figure on you after some editing, making you seem more like a mysterious persona instead of yourself." Sparkle explained.

"So, it'll be a silhouette of my body?" Yugi asked.

Sparkle nodded. "Mainly to add the illusion that the prince's face can't be revealed. The idea is that the princess doesn't know what her prince looks like, she is still searching for him and is trying to reach him. Only to have a vague image of what he should be according to her, adds to the mystery of the video."

Yugi smiled, as he now understood what to do. "Alright!" He agreed. Sparkle helped them get to the dancing number. Cosmo and Yugi started to slowly move around, letting their feet take the ride. It was tough at first, as they would accidentally step on each other's feet. After multiple apologies, they tried to keep up with the beat. A few hiccups later, they were lost to the movement of their own bodies. Yugi was practically a natural at it all things considered, and Cosmo was walking on air.

'I've never noticed this before, but Cosmo has a lot of grace when she dances.' Yugi thought to himself as they slowly danced, doing a few twirls and poses as they followed the music. 'Sometimes I forget how shy she really is. It's like we've both grown these past few months." He smiled more, getting used to the waltz now.

Cosmo was also having a great time, to her surprise. Her eyes stared at Yugi while she had her own thoughts. 'You may not believe it, Yugi, but you are more confident than you give yourself credit for. I still have to keep my motivation up, even when I am unsuccessful in my tasks. I have a long way to go before I can reach your level. But, if you can keep going yourself, then I will follow behind. I'm not giving up on you, so don't give up on yourself.'

Once the music stopped, Yugi was holding Cosmo closely to himself as they had a tight grip on their hands. They looked deep into their eyes, as the spotlight was only on them. They were frozen in time as they held that moment. Of course, they had to pull themselves apart and tried to avoid eye contact after the embarrassment washed over them. "You were great." Cosmo commented.

"You too…" Yugi agreed, smiling at her. Sparkle checked over the footage she got, while they continued their talk. "If that's all you needed, then I should head back. The contest is tomorrow and we will have to come here early to set everything up."

"Y-yeah… we should have the footage." Cosmo nodded. "Thank you again, Yugi." The boy smiled, waving to her as he began to head to the door. "Hey, Yugi…" The student stopped midway in the door frame as he turned back, seeing Cosmo pumping her fist up in an assertive manner. "Let's do our best tomorrow to support Anzu, Miho and even Jounouchi!" Yugi saw how excited she was for this event, causing him to beam as he gave a thumbs up before heading out.

---

It was finally the day of the popularity contest at Domino High. Small flares shot up into the sky for celebration as the sign outside of the gymnasium told everyone the event was taking place. Those that weren't participating gathered in the large room to take their seats. As of now, three groups were present. The first was Honda, leading the supporters of Miho. "Listen up everyone! The Beautification members will give our all to back up Miho Nosaka! Even if we lose our dignity, pride and life in this contest, we will show no regrets!" The brunet declared as he led everyone in their fight.

The second group on the far left of the auditorium were the fans of Kaoruko, led by the vice president of the student council. He wore a headband with her name in his plum hair on his chubby face, giving his own speech. "We are Himekoji Kaoruko's bodyguards! We will stake our lives so that Kaoruko will win!" All of the fans for the beauty cheered in response.

The last group was led by Yugi, holding up one of his signs as he chanted with the female students. "Anzu, we'll fight by your side!"

"Anzu, hang in there!" A girl in the crowd cheered, followed by many others. It was anyone's game, but there were many obstacles that would need to be passed if there was to be one winner.

Backstage, Cosmo slipped through the curtain of a cubicle to bring a small bag towards the brunette and periwinkle haired teens. "Miho, I got that blush you wanted." She said, going to the table with the mirror where Miho was sitting, as Anzu was by her side.

"Thank you, Cosmo." She smiled, grabbing the bag to take the compact and began to apply the foundation to her face, making the skin shine. "I'm so nervous…" She admits, checking her reflection.

"I'm sure you two will do fine. You already have a reputation at this school." The green haired girl assured them both. "I'll be rooting for the both of you out there." She promised.

"Thank you, we're going to need as much support as we can get." Anzu stated. "But Miho, I'm surprised you decided to enter. I thought you weren't interested in this contest, what made you change your mind?"

Miho giggled as a faint blush crossed her face. "Just a little motivation." That was her only answer to them. While neither Cosmo nor Anzu knew what she was referring to, all Miho could think about was being escorted onto the stage by that mysterious yet handsome man she and Yugi met many days ago. She prayed that he would show up to see her perform, then her winning would have been worth it. Determination coursed through her veins, making her raise her fists in the air. "Alright! I'm definitely going to win!" Miho declared.

They were suddenly interrupted by the opening of the curtain, revealing one of the other contestants as she plastered a grin on her face. "I overheard something about winning just now." Kaoruko stated, which caused the three to look at her and her lackeys.

"Ha, you should know your place by now." The one in the glasses stated.

"Don't take it personally, after all, if they wish to defile their dignity by just participating, then so be it." Kaoruko mocked.

"Hold on! You don't even know who will win yet!" Anzu protested as she and Miho glared at the others.

Cosmo tried to stop the fight before it began. "A-Anzu… no need to get upset."

"She's right Anzu," Miho agreed, holding her cheeks with a cheeky smile. "After all, all that anger will run our youth. You may be popular now, but the contest is more about the tightness of our skin, right?" Her remark held a nasty tone behind that mask of innocence. She was even more proud upon seeing Kaoruko's eye twitching.

"How dare you! Kaoruko is also a-" The glasses-wearing girl tried to argue, only for the red-haired one to raise a hand to silence her.

"Very well. We will wait for the results to tell us otherwise." Despite her tough act, Miho and Anzu knew a nerve had been struck. After all, she was two years older than the freshmen and it could be seen in some areas. The seniors walked off, leaving the younger girls alone to finish their preparations. Even though the taller girls were relishing in their small victory, Cosmo had a bad feeling that Kaoruko would make this contest more personal.

Once the auditorium began to darken, the students hushed their voices. A spotlight shone on the stage, showing the announcer of this contest as he was holding up the mic. The small freshman with the shaved head and round glasses began to speak. "Welcome everyone to Domino High's first popularity contest." He began his introduction. "We would first like to thank the Student Council for helping orchestrate this event. As well as the teachers who allowed us to host this performance. We have a handful of participants, but only one will be able to win and claim the prized theater tickets. So, with that introduction out of the way, let us present the contestants. For our first entry, third year student, Himekoji Kaoruko!" A second spotlight went on in the center of the stage, showing off the red-head in all her glory. Her fans swoon over her appearance, praising her to win. There were a few other participants from some other classes and grades, but it wasn't until the fifth entry that they recognized a familiar face.

"For our fifth entry, first year student, Jounouchi Katsuya!" The spotlight was on the male blond, who was cheering to himself with a wide smile. He was expecting some of the students to join in, but the whole gymnasium remained silent. When he noticed this, he became frustrated. Only one person was clapping for him, and that was Cosmo who was sitting next to Yugi in his group. Jounouchi looked over at her, giving her a small smile as he left the stage.

"You are too kind, Cosmo." Yugi told her as she was done clapping.

She giggled. "Someone needs to cheer him on. He is trying to break stereotypes, and I admire that."

"Next up for our sixth entry, first year student, Anzu Masaki." The announcer introduced the brunette as the spotlight was on her. She bowed to everyone as her fans cheered for her. Yugi waved his sign to get her attention. She waved to the group, putting on a kind smile as she walked off to make room for the next contestants. After a few more, there was one left. "Finally, for our ninth entry, first year student, Miho Nosaka!" All of Miho's fans, led by Honda, cheered for her as she beamed to them in gratitude for their support. Kaoruko watched from the sides, biting her nails as she saw the fans praising this child. The announcer let the last contestant leave the stage, as the spotlight was on him. "Alright, that appears to be all of the participants for this con-" He stopped his sentence as he turned to his side, where the curtain was close to him. Everyone watched as a feminine hand reached out from the back of the stage, handing him an envelope which he opened to look at the letter.

"What's going on?" Cosmo asked.

"Did something happen?" Yugi wondered as he looked at the stage.

The announcer read over the letter before he spoke into the microphone. "It… appears that there is a tenth entry. A last minute sign up that has been approved."

"Huh? There's another contestant?" Honda was baffled as he heard this, making the other students mutter amongst themselves.

"Did you know about this?" One of Kaoruko's fans asked the vice-president.

"I don't know! I wasn't in charge of the sign up!" The plump-haired one defended.

The announcer put the paper in his pockets, regaining his composure before he continued. "Well, it seems that this tenth entry wishes to remain anonymous until the very end. Giving us all a special show. I have been informed that this was approved so we will wait and see."

"A new contestant…" Yugi repeated. "I wonder who it could be."

"I just hope they aren't a match for Miho and Anzu…" Cosmo prayed.

"But if they can beat Kaoruko, then it may not be so bad." Yugi pointed out.

The announcer continued with the contest. "We will begin the first round, the talent portion, in fifteen minutes." Everyone prepared for the acts that would be held, as Kaoruko was backstage with her two main companions.

The one with the short, black hair spoke. "I just checked the recent votes. It appears half of the female students are voting for Anzu Masaki. While half of the first and second year males are for Miho Nosaka."

"What?! There's that many?!" She sounded scared for a moment.

"However, our fan club currently holds all of the third-year males. We're also luring some of the first-year males with the prospect of a date with you should you win." Her lackey explained.

The smile returned on the red-haired girl. "Really? Then we have nothing to worry about." She seemed relieved. Her eyes darted over to see Miho and Anzu passing by, wishing each other luck at the contest. Once they were gone, she huddled her friends closer together. "They act cheeky, when I'm the number one girl in this school. I think we better remind them of that." She declared as she looked at the girls.

---

The music in the auditorium started up again, as the announcer came back on stage with the spotlight on him and the center of the curtains. "Thank you for waiting, everyone. We may now begin the talent portion of our contest. First entry, Himekoji Kaoruko will be performing a dance called 'Procession of Courtesans." The announcer explained, as the said student appeared through a trapdoor underneath dressed up in ancient Japanese clothing and hairstyle. She started to move around with a fan in both hands, performing a very traditional dance. Her fans were praising her, even making the vice president blush. Honda scoffed, not at all phased by her 'performance'. She went on for five minutes, which was the time limit for the act to go on.

The next few acts went, not getting nearly as much attention as what Kaoruko did. They were pretty decent, regardless. That was, until they got to the fifth contestant. "Now then, it is time for entry number five's freestyle. His performance is that of a surprise, so let us see what he has for us." Everyone's attention went to the stage as the spotlight was on the contestant. There 'she' was, walking in place with red high heels, swaying 'her' hips in a low-cut purple strapless dress. Short, wavy golden hair shone with the light as it casted down on the fifth entry. When Jounouchi turned around, 'her' face had heavy eyeshadow, puffy lips and blush on the cheeks.

"Hi there~!" Jounouchi said in English, pouting out the lips. "My name is Mary-Bae." 'She' winked to the crowd, as they were not all happy with this performance. Many of them actually revolted in disgust to the point they were about to throw up. It was such a disturbing sight, many of the students even began to throw garbage at Jounouchi. Threatening him to cut the act and to get off the stage. This only made Jounouchi upset, as he was just giving the audience what they wanted: a woman! It was only more humiliating when somehow, someone managed to throw a pie directly onto his face. That caused many of the students to laugh, along with Cosmo who was practically losing it, as she rolled on the floor while holding her stomach, tears streaming down her eyes. Everyone else was mocking him, saying the pie made his face look better. That was enough to toss him over the edge, taking off the pie and wig before Jounouchi jumped into the crowd. "You've done it now, you bastard!" He yelled, smashing and hitting everyone, causing a ruckus as he demanded to know who threw that pie so he could make them pay.

This fight made the announcer blow a whistle. "Jounouchi, abandoning the stage, calls for disqualification!"

The blond held a guy half beaten up by the collar, looked back at the announcer with a shocked expression on his face. That was a relief to many of the students, as Yugi watched this with Cosmo, who was trying to regain herself from laughing. "Guess this means he won't be winning." He notes sadly.

Cosmo coughed a bit as she wiped the tears from her eyes while sitting up. "Too bad… that… haha… was the best performance…" She let out rouge giggles.

The announcer got everyone back on track. "Time to take our mind off of that then. For our sixth entry, Anzu Masaki with a hip hop dance!" The spotlight went on Anzu, who was dressed up in a pink tank top and denim shorts. She jumped around a bit on her tiptoes as she was ready to dance. Yugi cheered for her, saying she could do it. She stayed in place, waiting for the music to come on. By the time it did though, her face went from confident to confused. The music sounded more like polka, not the hip hop that she picked. Yugi noticed how still Anzu was, and it didn't take long for the pieces to fall into place.

"Hey, this contest isn't about you showing off your home town!" One of the fans of Kaoruko laughed along, urging Anzu to do a folk dance.

"If you do not perform, then you will be disqualified." The announcer warned. No amount of cheering would help to encourage Anzu, as this was not what she had planned and was unable to improvise. She slumped in defeat and walked off the stage in a disappointed fashion. "Well, it appears that Anzu Masaki has been disqualified as well."

"Oh no…" Cosmo gasped, watching as Anzu got kicked out of the contest. "What could have happened?" Yugi thought the same thing, upset that both her and Jounouchi were out. At least Miho was still participating, which meant it was up to her to beat Kaoruko.

The periwinkle haired girl did her act after the other contestants went. Her freestyle was a baton based dance, aiming her legs high as she spun the stick around without dropping it. Her supporters were cheering for her, Honda even said that she was the best. Some of Anzu's supporters were admiring her skills, adding to the praise. When Miho finished, the audience clapped as the first part of the contest had ended. "Now then, if everyone can head over to the pool, we will begin the second act." The announcer stated. Everyone got up, gathering themselves and supplies as they made their way out of the auditorium.

"I hope Miho will do alright in the second phase." Yugi noted as he got up.

Cosmo nodded over at him. "I better go see how they are. Miho will need all the help she can get." The green-haired girl stood up and headed out to locate her female friends, while Yugi followed the rest of the students to the pool where he sat down on one of the bleachers. Jounouchi sat next to him, now that he was out of the competition. He was sitting crossed legged and had a pouting expression.

"You alright, Jounouchi?" Yugi asked, trying to cheer him up.

"Can't believe I lost the first round. I even prepared a flower patterned bikini for this." He sighed in annoyance.

Yugi, however, held up the sign to his face so he could hide his displeasure at the idea. 'I doubt anyone would want to see that.' He thought to himself. To be fair, Jounouchi did get farther into the competition than anyone believed he could.

The dressing room was bustling with activity as Miho was trying to prepare for the next phase. Cosmo and Anzu were there to help her out, now that she was the only one in the group who was still in this performance. The brunette was salty about how her act failed. "Man, I'm still pissed thinking about it. Who could have switched the tapes?"

"There isn't anything we can do about it now." Cosmo stated before looking over at Miho as she had on a lime-green robe while adjusting her hair. "Miho, you've got to win no matter what! We're going to root for you!"

The periwinkle haired girl smiled and giggled. "Just leave it to me! I bought a new swimsuit yesterday that I really like and would fit well for this occasion."

"Really? Can we see?" Cosmo begged as she was getting excited.

Miho headed over to the lockers at her request. "Alright, just don't be too surprised when you see it." She took hold of the door and began to open it for the display. "Ta-da!" Miho was excited, ready to jump into the cream-colored suit. Once the door was all the way open, her face went from confident to terrified at the horror within the locker. The clothing had been shredded to pieces, practically unwearable at this point. "W-What happened?!"

"There's no way you can wear this suit now…" Anzu pointed out sadly.

"What are we going to do? Without a swimsuit, Miho will be disqualified." Cosmo reminded the girls.

"There has to be something…" Anzu hummed as she tried to improvise, with little time they needed a solution quickly.

Meanwhile, everyone outside was cheering as Kaoruko was climbing up onto the diving board. She wore magenta high top sandals and was covered with a golden robe draped around her figure. Once she was seen, the announcer began to speak. "Thank you for waiting. We will now begin the bikini portion of the show. Starting with entry number one, Himekoji Kaoruko!" The red-haired beauty removed her robe, showing off a very revealing two piece suit which matched her heels. All of the boys were stunned by her body, even Jounouchi whistled as he couldn't deny the act before him. Yugi awed upon seeing Kaoruko in such a state, as much as he hated to admit.

Her figure caught the attention of Miho's supporters, who were staring with wide eyes and drooling mouths. Honda attempted to shield their view of her at any costs necessary. "Don't look, you guys! You have to stay strong for Miho! You must not look!" His attempts were in vain, as Kaoruko smiled at everyone, letting the sun hit her skin to make it illuminate. The vice president had hearts in his eyes upon the sight, ready to faint from the goddess. She posed for a bit longer, until she was escorted off the stage for the other remaining competitors, though they were not nearly as good as the first entry.

"Now then, for the last entry, number nine is Miho Nosaka!" The announcer declared. Everyone waited, looking around but they couldn't spot the girl with the ribbon in her hair. "Miho Nosaka. Please come to the stage." The announcer called again. Still, there was no sign of her. Many began to grow worried as they believed she had dropped out. "Miho? Where are you?"

The vice president laughed. "I bet she got scared of Kaoruko's beauty and ran off."

"Don't be stupid!" Honda shouted into his face. But if Miho didn't appear soon, then she would be removed from the competition. "Miho please! Please Miho! Hurry and show yourself!" Honda begged as he ran around the pool to look for her, beginning to lose his faith as he was unable to find her. Tears ran down his face, believing he had officially lost.

"Thank you for waiting everyone!" That familiar high-pitched voice called out, making the crowd turn to the diving platform. At the top is where she stood, wearing a seashell bra and a seafoam green mermaid tail wrapped around her waist.

Honda gasped in happiness, seeing his crush upstaging Kaoruko. "Miho! You're here!" The younger student waved to everyone, smiling cheerfully as she managed to gain the attention of the students.

"Amazing! Not only is that a grand entrance, but a stunning performance!" The announcer declared, impressed with the presentation.

"That's our idol, Miho Nosaka!" Honda declared.

Cosmo and Anzu were standing on the sides, admiring their work. "It turned out better than we thought." Cosmo declared.

"We were lucky the drama club allowed us to borrow that costume on such short notice." Anzu pointed out.

The event made Kaoruko visibly shake and twitch, starring in envy at Miho who was stealing her show. Even a few of the girls in the background noted how pretty Miho looked in such an outfit, appearing like a real-life mermaid. "Miho! You're as pretty as a fairy! No, a goddess. No, the sun itself!" Honda breathed happily, fainting into the pool from the overstimulation. She did her show for a bit, posing on the platform until it was time to get off.

"Looks like it will be a tough battle between Miho Nosaka and Himekoji Kaoruko. Everyone, head back to the auditorium for the final part!" The announcer declared, letting the students talk amongst themselves as they were curious what the final part would be.

"It all comes down to this…" Cosmo noted as Miho was heading back to the locker room.

"It will be up to her now. Come on, let's go and support from the sides." Anzu suggested, as the two went off to cheer for Miho with Yugi, Jounouchi and Honda. It was a mistake as they had no idea that the competition had one more trick up their sleeve.

---

The students were back inside the building as the final challenge would start soon. Miho's team was having it out against team Kaoruko. "Alright everyone! Miho is sure to be the victor! We will stay passionate until the very end!" Honda declared as he was leading his group.

"What are you blabbering about?" The vice principal questioned. "It is us that will be watching Kaoruko win!"

Honda smugly looked at them. "I wonder about that."

The announcer spoke again in the mic, gaining everyone's attention. "Right now, Himekoji Kaoruko and Miho Nosaka will be judged by their stand alone beauty in the dresses they picked for their formal style." Yugi watched the stage intensely as he was curious yet prepared for what would happen. The event would take place in the next fifteen minutes, but he didn't want to just sit around. Between Honda handling the fans and Jounouchi getting a drink, he figured he would get up and check on how Miho was doing. Especially considering the strange vandalism that had been happening, he wanted to make sure that Miho would be alright. He got up from the floor and headed backstage, to check up on the girls.

"You didn't see her in the changing room?" Yugi paused in his walking, hearing Cosmo's voice.

"No! I left for just a few minutes but when I came back, she wasn't there." Anzu admitted.

Yugi looked over near the entrance to the stage, seeing the two girls there panicking. "What's going on?" He asked, approaching them as the two females turned to him with pale faces.

"Yugi! Miho isn't in her changing room! She's disappeared and the event is about to start!" Anzu explained.

Yugi was shocked, as that gut feeling he had earlier had come to fruition. "What?! Did you check the backstage and changing rooms?"

Cosmo nodded. "She wasn't in any of them."

"Okay, we have to find her!" Yugi declared. "I'll look around the changing station again. You stay near the stage in case she does come by." The two girls nodded, taking the advice before Yugi ran out to locate Miho. As he made it out of the room, he tried to think of where she would be, needing to be a quick thinker. 'Where could she have gone to? Miho will be disqualified if she doesn't show up' As he was heading down the halls, he looked to his left and noticed Kaoruko walking onto the stage with her two female friends. She had on a midnight cape covering her outfit, but Yugi took notice of the bouquet of roses she held along with the one in her hair, as she smiled cheekily.

Since there was no sign of Miho in the building, he picked up his feet and they carried him outside. "Miho!" Yugi yelled as loud as he could, searching for her as the announcer was introducing Kaoruko on the stage.

"Please welcome, Himekoji Kaoruko!" The announcer shone the spotlight on the red-haired woman, showing off her crimson red spaghetti-strapped dress. High heels and elbow length gloves to match. The fans cheered for her, praising her beauty as she showed it off with confidence.

Yugi had looked inside the changing room near the pool, but still saw no sign of the young student. He decided to check around the rest of the building, calling out to her as his eyes were wide open. He checked every nook and cranny, pushing his legs and lungs until he gained the attention of a space between the school building and the auditorium. It seemed like something was laying there on the ground between buildings, so he went over to take a closer look. When he got there, he was horrified to see the familiar girl laying on the ground. "Miho!?" It was a terrible sight, as she laid face down in the dirt. The back of her dress had been ripped apart, showing off her bra strap. This was a personal attack, Yugi was certain. He knelt down, shaking the girl in the hopes that she would wake up. "Miho! Come on! Get up!" He begged, yet she would not budge no matter how hard he shook her.

"It's no use." Yugi jumped, hearing someone nearby. When he looked up, he was greeted by the lavender-haired woman who had her signature posture of hands on hips.

"Sparkle…?" Yugi stared up at her, so many questions in his mind but she seemed to be the only one with answers.

The woman walked over, kneeling next to the student to examine her. "She was knocked out, but there isn't any bruises or scratches, which meant it wasn't by brute force." Her pupils darted over to a white rag next to Miho's face, picking it up and taking a small sniff. She shook her head before handing it over to Yugi so he could get an idea. The boy took a small whiff, only to instantly pull back.

"That's chloroform!" He gasped.

"They drugged her, using the chemicals from the labs of the school. Any student or teacher could have had access to it, but considering the adults are in the lounge and a few are chaperoning this event, I doubt they would have the time or means to do so." Sparkle speculated.

"Then… who would do this?" Yugi questioned.

"A female for certain." Sparkle answered, which caused him to look up at her. "Female forms are usually more delicate than men, so they aren't strong enough to take down people. Plus… I don't know too many guys at this school who would leave behind floral decorations." She pointed over to something else near Miho, which Yugi took notice of.

"A flower petal?" Yugi realized. "It looks like a rose petal." He noted, being reminded of what they looked like thanks to Cosmo's knowledge. He thought back to Kaoruko, who was walking up to the stage with a bouquet of flowers and one in her hair, the same roses that she was carrying! His eyes grew sharper as he realized who has been sabotaging this contest from the very beginning! "Kaoruko…" He seethed her name through his teeth.

"For someone so confident in her own beauty, she wasn't afraid to resort to dirty tricks just to declare her victory. Maybe she's not as pretty as she believes she is." Sparkle noted bitterly and unsympathetically.

"I… have to go…" Miho muttered in her dazed state. "I have to go… because I'm…going to win…" Yugi looked at her, knowing that deep down she wanted to be victorious. He felt sorry for her, because there was no way she could go in such a state.

Sparkle leaned forward, picking up Miho bridal style with ease before getting to her feet. "I'll have to take her to the infirmary, the nurse will look over her. Yugi," the young boy looked up at the woman, as she glared at him with a serious expression. "Make that bitch pay for crossing the line." Yugi wasn't surprised by her choice of wording. Nor was he planning on letting them both down and having Kaoruko get away with this. Once Sparkle's back was turned on him and she took Miho away, he felt the Millennium Puzzle around his neck glow as the power coursed through his veins. Strong hands reached out to grab the petal roughly as he would bring justice for Miho.

Back inside the auditorium, Kaoruko was done with her performance while everyone was currently waiting for Miho to appear so she could be judged. However, they were waiting an awfully long time, to the point her support group was growing worried. "Miho Nosaka! Are you ready?" The announcer asked as he was on stage, waiting for the last contestant to come out. "If you do not come out in the next five minutes, I will declare her as a forfeit."

The vice president of Kaoruko's fans snickered. "Now Kaoruko is sure to be set for victory."

"Don't say so just yet!" Honda declared, though his voice wavered as he was upset that there was no sign of her. "Miho is sure to come out!"

Kaoruko watched behind the curtain, knowing full well that her last obstacle would not be coming. She was certain victory was at hand. A sudden draft wafted through, making the curtains rustle and gaining her attention. She looked behind her, wondering where that wind had come from. A hand reached out from the shadows, holding a single rose petal. "It looks like you dropped this." An eerie, assertive tone called out.

"Who are you?" She asked, staring at the petal.

"If you are going to do cowardly things to step on your rivals, you better prepare for the consequences." He warned.

She stepped back, holding her bouquet of flowers near her. "What are you talking about? Do you know who you are addressing?!"

"Such a pathetic person." 'Yugi' stated, taking a step closer to her to reveal himself. "You can play dumb as much as you like. However, I'll only keep this a secret if you can beat me."

"Beat you in what?" She questioned, narrowing her eyes at him.

"It's game time." 'Yugi' declared, as he would start her test of character.

Kaoruko just looked at him, wondering if he was serious. Then again, if anyone found out about her interference, she'd be forced to forfeit. She believed he was bluffing, as he probably didn't have enough proof. Yet it was a risk she couldn't take, so she would play along until she could get her crown and title. "Alright, what do you want me to do, exactly?"

"We'll play a simple game that involves the flowers you have on you." 'Yugi' explained, pointing at the bouquet of roses. "The person who pulls the last rose will be the loser. We are free to pick from one to three flowers at a time."

Kaoruko looked at the flowers, smiling as she understood the rules and how simple they were. "Alright, in that case you may go first." She held out her bouquet, donning that smile for 'Yugi' to start the game. He reached over and took out a single rose, tossing it to the ground. It was her turn now, so she pulled two roses. Like clockwork, the players went back and forth with each other. 'Yugi' pulled out another single, then she pulled only one herself. They were both strategizing what they would do in order to make sure they won, since numbers were everything in this game. Rose after rose was tossed to the ground until there were only six left after 'Yugi' plucked one out of the pile. Seeing this made Kaoruko laugh. "You fool! You made me win!" She then plucked one rose herself, leaving only five. "No matter how you look at it, the one who picks first will be the loser. The question is how many you will pick."

"So this was your plan." 'Yugi' held his poker face, letting her believe he fell into her trap.

"If you pick one, then I will pick three. If you pick two, I will pick two. And if you pick three, I will pick one. No matter how you look at it, you will be the one to claim the last rose." She explained, glaring at him with those icy orbs of hers. "Either way, the one to pick the last rose will be you."

"Perhaps you are right, but let us see just to be safe." 'Yugi' stated, reaching over and once again, picking out only a single flower.

"Just as I told you, it was useless." Kaoruko took out three, leaving the last flower. "You lose." She cackled a laugh, knowing she had him where she wanted him. "Go on then, take your loser prize." She held out the rose for 'Yugi', keeping that smug-looking grin on her features. His fingers reached out, going to the stem. However, in a split moment he motioned to her hair and grabbed hold of the very rose resting on her head. The action caused Kaoruko to gasp, seeing the action done which made her confused.

'Yugi' held the petals close to his nose, sniffing the fragrance as he was the one that now smirked in victory. "I said that we would be taking the flowers you had. I never said it would only be from the bouquet." He corrected her.

"W-what?!" She blinked in bafflement and shock. Her eyes stared down at the last flower in her hand, as she was stuck with it, which meant… "This can't be! You cheated, you didn't mention that!" She tried to justify, but it was too late.

"The door of darkness has opened for you." 'Yugi' declared, pointing directly at Kaoruko which sealed her fate. Upon those words, her punishment started. The last rose she held began to wilt right before her eyes, drooping and soiling as its firmness faded. She gasped, not from the deformed flower, but at her hand. The skin on her arm had become wrinkle-like, morphing into dry and flabby tissue. She screamed in pure horror, dropping the rose and held her face, feeling many creases that weren't there before. She turned her head around frantically, trying to find out what was going on. Kaoruko soon located a large mirror that had been conjured by the illusion she found herself in. The moment she saw her reflection, she was speechless as her body looked like an old hag with its wrinkly, dry exterior.

"W-what is this?! Is this really me?!" She was mortified, only able to stare at her face as she saw the ugliness within herself finally appearing on the outside.

'Yugi' approached her from behind, speaking his lesson. "Beauty doesn't last forever. Eventually, the ugliness in your heart will catch up to your looks." He then turned his back on her, leaving her to her nightmare as it was her punishment not for losing, but for revealing her true character. Kaoruko reached out to him, begging him to stop and to fix her skin. She had learned her lesson, she just wanted to be beautiful again. Her wishes went unanswered, as she felt snakes descending from above to wrap around her wrists, holding her in place. Her punishment was not over yet.

The students in the auditorium had waited long enough, time was up and they had to continue the contest. "It seems that Miho Nosaka has forfeited, which means that Himekoji Kaoruko is declared the winner." The announcer declared, which sent Kaoruko's supporters into a frenzy. The vice president was cheering, and her two female friends held their hands as they praised her.

Honda fell to his knees, defeated and crying out in disappointment. "Miho, where did you go?" He questioned, feeling lost. Jounouchi reached over by his side, helping him back to his feet as he understood his frustration.

"This is unfair! Something has to have happened to Miho." Cosmo declared, not liking this one bit as her and Anzu could only watch from the side. The brunette nodded, having an idea of who was to blame for all of this.

The curtains in the back began to rise up, to reveal the woman that had won the contest. Everyone was anxious to see the beauty that would be the face of Domino High. Their excitement turned to confusion and mutters as they looked to the stage, where Kaoruko had her head held down, as if she looked defeated. Ropes wrapped around her arms, yet she was holding on to them. "Himekoji?" The announcer spoke to her, trying to gain her attention.

"What's going on?" Jounouchi wondered as he and Honda couldn't take their eyes off of her. To everyone's surprise, the 'winner' of the contest ended up pulling the ropes. Water was released from above, falling down and drenching her whole body. The crowd gasped, shocked at how she could do such a thing when she had claimed victory. Even the vice president was staring up at her with wavering eyes. Many of the students began to laugh, calling her a "washed up lady".

"This is… a sudden turn of events? Does this mean she forfeits as well?" The announcer questioned, not sure what to make of Kaoruko's act. Cosmo and Anzu looked at one another, baffled as they didn't understand what was happening. They stayed backstage, looking over at Kaoruko, who remained on the platform as she let everyone laugh at her while the water soaked up her dress.

Just as the announcer was about to say more, someone familiar stepped up onto the stage. She grabbed the microphone from the small boy and gained everyone's eyes as she spoke. "Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention please?" She asked politely.

"Sparkle?" Anzu gasped, seeing the lavender-haired girl on the stage.

Jounouchi blinked. "What is she doing?"

The room went silent as her eyes glared over at the woman in crimson. "I do humbly apologize for this inconvenience in your popularity contest. However, I'm afraid this match has been rigged by this contestant here. Himekoji Kaoruko has been sabotaging her rivals in this pageant in order to claim victory." Everyone in the room gasped in shock, many groups muttering to themselves.

"That can't be!" The leader of her fan club shouted, gaining Sparkle and the student's attention. "Kaoruko would never stoop so low!"

Sparkle merely glared at the boy, which caused him to freeze in place before sitting back down in silence. She would not let his baised ignore hard evidence. Especially what she collected. Reaching into a duffle bag, Sparkle took out a pink tape and held it for everyone to see. "Exhibit A. This tape was found in Kaoruko's dressing room. The title on it says "Anzu's Hip Hop Dance". This was going to be the song Anzu Masaki would use in her talent portion, which got switched at the last minute. The last person to have been near the speakers was Kaoruko herself." Her harsh glare was still on the girl, who did not protest in the slightest, which meant it was true. After putting the tape back in the bag, Sparkle took out a cream colored swimsuit which had been ripped to shreds.

"Exhibit B. This swimsuit was going to be used for Miho's bikini portion, but it was torn up before she could use it. Just moments before Miho went in to change her suit, Kaokuro and her friends went into the changing room and rifled through the lockers that didn't belong to her." Sparkle's eyes then drifted to the audience, staring intently at the two girls that were close with Kaoruko. The one with the glasses and girl with the black hair looked up, holding each other as they shivered, realizing they got busted. But, there was one final piece of evidence.

Sparkle put the suit away and then took out a white rag from her bag. "Exhibit C. Miho Nosaka was found knocked unconscious near the changing rooms, where her dress was ripped apart. She is currently in the infirmary being looked over right now. This rag, which has been laced with chloroform, was found at the scene of the crime. Some eyewitnesses stated that Miho was approached by one of Kaoruko's friends, telling her that someone wanted to see her in the back alley of the changing room." Again, Sparkle scowled at the crowd where ther girls were, shaking in fear as they were revealed. Once the rag was put away, she turned back over to the male student. "This is more than enough evidence, don't you think, Announcer?"

She handed the microphone back to him, looking up at her as he gulped nervously. "W-Well… it is hard to argue with such facts." He admitted. Everyone began to call Kaoruko a cheater and liar, saying she was a devilish woman and how she was so vain in her beauty, she didn't want anyone to beat her.

Many of her supporters even lost faith in her, to the point the vice president balled his eyes out as he went onto his knees. "Kaoruko! Why did you do it?!" He sobbed.

"I think we can say this cheating is more than enough reason to remove her from the competition." Sparkle wasn't asking, she was telling. "Himekoji Kaoruko… you are disqualified for poor sportsmanship and committing minor offenses. Head to the principal's office with your friends, where your parents and the authorities will be called." Kaoruko didn't protest Sparkle's order. She kept her head hung low as she walked off the stage, accepting her defeat and punishment. Students were already gossiping about the event, and Kaoruko's friends were being taken by some of the facility who worked today to the office, as they had no choice but to see their punishment for being involved as accomplices.

"Serves her right!" Anzu huffed. "Should have realized sooner she was behind this."

"But… who will win the contest now?" Cosmo wondered.

Sparkle stole the microphone from the announcer, not done talking yet. "Unfortunately, I do have to be fair in this regard. Since Miho Nosaka is unable to come to the stage due to… her accident, she will not be able to claim the title of this contest."

"Shit!" Honda swore, a bit furious. "Just when I thought things were looking up!" Even the crowd was displeased, as they wanted a winner.

"I know you all are upset. So, I will make it up to you by showing you the mysterious entry. The one that has not appeared and remained anonymous until now." This did gain the student's attention, looking up at the stage as they tried to find this mysterious tenth entry. "Now, she didn't technically enter on her own accord, but I think once you see the performance she'll put on, you will be blown away." Sparkle giggled, snapping her fingers as the stage went dark. Everyone was on edge as they kept their eyes on stage, trying to guess who this entry was. Soon, a large screen was pulled down from the ceiling. Once it was fully lowered, the projector from above shone the light, presenting an image on the surface.
Music soon began to fill the room from the video. Soft drums and bells began to ring, as the beat followed with smooth string instruments. Images of falling snow appeared first, then powdered covered flowers. While many students were unsure of the video playing, Cosmo took a closer look as she saw that it appeared familiar. A small spotlight was then placed on a figure dressed in green and red ribbons. Jounouchi gasped, seeing the green-haired girl in the video. "C-Cosmo?"

"T-That's me…" Cosmo realized, seeing the video. "Wait… that means that this is…" She trailed off, watching as the song played out. The video showed her sitting on the bench in the film, looking up at the sky while smiling at the snow falling. She opened her mouth to begin singing.

"In a dream, I could see~ You were not far away~. Anytime, anyplace~ I can see your face~. You were that special one, that I've been waiting for~. And I hope you're looking for someone like… me~." She sang along to the melody playing in the background. Everyone gasped, mesmerized by the lovely singing taking place. The scene switched to Cosmo picking white and red flowers from bushes, holding them close in a bundle she made. "In my dreams~ I can hear you calling me. In my life~ everything's so sweet. In your eyes~ I feel~ There's so mu~ch inside. In the nights~ dream delight~ I want to see you standing there~. In the nights~ dream delight~ I found someone who really cares~. In the nights~ dream delight~ I want to see you smile again~. In the nights~ dream delight~ you are the one I've waited for~."

Anzu was speechless, hearing the young girl singing with such a perfect match to that melody. Cosmo was still in shock and torn up by the fact at how well the cinematography came out yet embarrassed that her video was being publicly shown to the whole school. The students made comments about how beautiful she sounded, how gorgeous she looked. She heard some of them, which made her fluster even more. She curled into the curtain, trying to stay away from the stage as possible. The scene changed where Cosmo was holding hands with a shadow figure with no face. They began to dance in a waltz fashion as the song continued with her singing.

"In a dream we can do~ Everything we want to~. There's nowhere I'd rather be~ oh but here with you~. The stars above light the way~ only for you and I~. I'm so glad I found the one I've been looking for~. Keep the dream~ of the one you're hoping for~ Love can come~ through an open door~. Just be strong~ and you're~ sure to find~ the one~. In the nights~ dream delight~ I want to see you standing there~. In the nights~ dream delight~ I found someone who really cares~. In the nights~ dream delight~ I want to see you smile again~. In the nights~ dream delight~ you are the one I've waited for~."

The song came to an end, as Cosmo and the figure were very close. The video began to pan out, until it turned black with snowflakes falling down. Once the screen faded to nothingness, the whole auditorium clapped. Everyone praised and whistled at the video and the singer herself. "They love you, Cosmo!" Anzu cheered.

"Eh?" Cosmo shuttered as her face became red. "I… uh… they… I mean…" She couldn't even find the words to say as she felt herself becoming embarrassed.

"Cosmo?" Anzu noticed how nervous she was, reaching over to try and calm the green-haired girl down.

"Excuse me!" She turned around, running off from the back of the stage to head out of the exit. Anzu watched her go, as she didn't blame her for the sudden attention she was getting. Still, the students weren't disappointed. At least this contest wasn't a total bust.

---

The young girl found herself alone at the gates of the school, panting as her nerves were shaking. The sun was starting to set as everyone would no doubt begin to leave for home. Right now, Cosmo was trying to be alone and stay away from the people who just watched her sing. She doubted that she would be crowned popular girl at the contest, and even if she was, she would deny it. Her anxiety was spiking as their praises were in her mind once again. "Cosmo?" The green-haired girl jumped, turning to her left where she saw one of her friends.

"Ah! Y-Yugi… you scared me…" Cosmo panted, trying to regain her breathing.

"Are you okay?" Yugi went to her, in an attempt to calm her down. "What happened?"

She looked up at her friend. "You mean… you didn't see?" Yugi shook his head, confused by what she talked about. So she explained, telling him about Kaoruko being exposed for her cheating, her getting disqualified and going to the principal's office. Then she told Yugi about how Sparkle showed the school the music video that Cosmo starred in. Her face was flustered once again as she expressed her worries. "I can't believe Sparkle would post that video for everyone to see." She complained, as Yugi decided to walk her home, heading away from the high school so she could get home and try to relax. "Why didn't she tell me or warn me first? And now everyone will know about it and this will mean unwanted attention. I don't like having eyes on me, especially with how the guys seem to be wanting to know more about me." She rambled on with one negative critic after another. She vented out her feelings, but Yugi was pondering about the contest and the pieces he didn't remember.

'What did I do back there?' Yugi wondered, all he could recall was seeing Miho being taken by Sparkle, as the lavender-haired woman told him to make Kaoruko pay. After that, it was all blank. 'I ended up having a relapse in my memory during the end of the contest.' As Yugi thought about it, he remembered what that young man told him a week ago. Who thought he harmed Yugi but couldn't remember. It seemed he somehow had problems losing pieces and bits of his memory at times. 'I wonder… does he have the same problems as me? But… What's causing these relapses? I wished they would stop soon.'

"Yugi?" Cosmo noticed his dazed expression, and with her voice he was snapped out of his thoughts, looking at her in concern. "Is something bothering you? You can tell me if you're having problems."

Yugi bit his lip, looking away from her. As much as he wanted to tell Cosmo or any of his friends about the loss in memory, he did not fully understand the situation himself. Besides, he feared that if he admitted these problems, they would leave him alone to deal with them himself. He didn't want to burden them with his issues nor risk losing them. So he shook his head. "S-Sorry… I was just worried about Miho and the contest." He lied. "What about Kaoruko? What will happen to her?"

Cosmo thought for a moment before answering. "If I know Sparkle and the principal, she may end up getting expelled for stealing, vandalism and intoxicating a fellow classmate. Her friends could get charged since they were accomplices as well. But we will have to wait until tomorrow for the verdict."

"Even if she doesn't get expelled, no one is going to be looking at her the same way again." Yugi pointed out.

"I wonder what happened to her before the curtains rose up." Cosmo questioned. "It's like all of that ego she had just suddenly disappeared."

"Let's not talk about the contest anymore. Between Miho, Kaoruko and even you, I think I had enough popularity for one lifetime." Yugi stated.

Cosmo sighed. "You're not wrong… I just want to forget about that music video."

"Too bad I couldn't get to see it." Yugi admitted. "Especially from what I heard, you sang beautifully."

She turned to face him, blinking a few times. "You… Do you think so?"

"Yeah. I do wish I could see the full video, but I understand if you don't want me to see it. You're already embarrassed by it."

Cosmo had a small smile on her face, as Yugi's compliment was the one that made her feel somewhat special. "Well, I guess I could ask Sparkle for a copy of that video… if you are curious."

"Really?!" Yugi sounded far more excited than he should have been. Still, she didn't mind so long as it made him happy. "Hey, how about we head back to my place and play a few rounds of Capumon! We got some new figurines with incredible abilities."

Cosmo did not hesitate on the offer, especially since it had been a while since the two hung out to play. "That sounds like a great idea." She smiled, as the two headed off to the Kame Game Shop. They were both trying to stay optimistic about the future, despite what it could bring them.